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Tuberous breast correction by using a single-stage “star-like” incision: an innovative technique

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European Journal of Plastic Surgery Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Background

Tuberous breast deformity is a congenital anomaly affecting young women. Several surgical techniques have been developed, but in many cases, they have not led to the expected results or have led to significant complications. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the efficacy of treating tuberous breast deformity with an innovative “star-like” incision technique.

Methods

Between 2009 and 2013, 25 patients with a tuberous breast deformity underwent surgery at our department. All patients were managed with a star-like incision of the gland and the placement of a subfascial silicone gel implant in a single-stage surgical procedure. An areolar reduction was also performed.

Results

Our results, with a maximum follow-up of 4 years, were satisfying. There were no surgical or later complications. The new breasts had a natural shape, correct symmetry, a normal-sized areola, reduced evidence of the “double-bubble" deformity, good mammary projection, and resolved ptosis.

Conclusion

Advantages of the star-like incision technique include lower breast pole restructuring in the volume, length, and shape, suitable breast implant coverage, and proper correction of areola size and herniation. The technique is safe and achieves satisfactory, long-lasting results.

Level of Evidence: Level IV, descriptive study

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Acknowledgments

We thank Prof. Roxanne Holly Padley, English language expert and assistant for Department of Human Sciences, Philosophy and Education, Salerno, University of Salerno for providing excellent technical revision and support.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, Second University of Naples, L.Miraglia Square, 2, Naples, 80138, Italy

    Giuseppe A. Ferraro, Francesco De Francesco, Bruno Di Pace, Antonio Guastafierro & Giovanni Francesco Nicoletti

Authors
  1. Giuseppe A. Ferraro
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  2. Francesco De Francesco
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  3. Bruno Di Pace
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  4. Antonio Guastafierro
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  5. Giovanni Francesco Nicoletti
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Francesco De Francesco.

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Ehical approval

This study was approved by our Internal Ethical Committee (Second University of Naples Ethical Committee). However, for this type of retrospective study formal consent is not required.

Conflict of interest

Giuseppe A. Ferraro, Francesco De Francesco, Bruno Di Pace, Antonio Guastafierro and Giovanni Francesco Nicoletti declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Patient consent

Patients provided written consent before their inclusion in this study. Additional consent was obtained for the use of their images.

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None.

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Ferraro, G., De Francesco, F., Di Pace, B. et al. Tuberous breast correction by using a single-stage “star-like” incision: an innovative technique. Eur J Plast Surg 40, 525–532 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00238-017-1278-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00238-017-1278-y

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